AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS​

Botox/ Dysport Pre + Post

Pre-Treatment:

  • Avoid Blood Thinners: Steer clear of blood-thinning medications to minimize bruising.
  • Communicate: Let your provider know about any allergies or medications you’re taking.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
  • Clean Face: Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face.
  •  

Post-Treatment:

  • Avoid Rubbing: Don’t rub or touch the treated area for at least 24 hours.
  • Stay Upright: Remain upright and avoid bending over for the first few hours.
  • No Exercise: Skip intense physical activity for the rest of the day to prevent product migration.
  • Be Patient: Allow 7-14 days for the full effect to appear.
  • Follow-Up: Schedule your follow-up appointment as advised.

PRE:

  • AVOID: (30 Days BEFORE AND AFTER)
    IF YOU HAVE HAD ANY OF THE FOLLOWING IN THE LAST 2 WEEKS, YOU CANNOT RECEIVE TREATMENT. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to us.
  • AVOID: (30 Days Before and After Treatment)
    • Dental work (including cleanings)
    • Vaccines
    • Antibiotics
    • Facial piercings or tattoos
    • Broken skin, rash, or cold sores in the treatment area
  • AVOID: (7-10 Days Before Treatment)
    • Alcohol
    • Vitamin E
    • Fish oil
    • Ginkgo
    • Glucosamine
    • Green tea
    • Garlic
    • St. John’s Wort
    • Aspirin
    • Turmeric
    • Ibuprofen

Helpful Tips: Pineapple and Arnica Montana (available in our office) can aid recovery.

Before Your Appointment: Please arrive 15 minutes early, with no makeup, for skin cleansing and medical imaging.

If you have questions or concerns, reach out to us.

POST:

  • Post-Treatment Care Instructions
    • Avoid Excess Heat: Stay away from saunas, hot showers, direct sunlight, and cooking over hot stoves for several days to prevent increased bleeding and bruising.
    • Skip Strenuous Exercise: Refrain from vigorous exercise to reduce bruising and swelling.
    • Sun Protection: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunblock to prevent discoloration.
    • No Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for 24 hours as it can increase bruising.
    • Lip Care: Avoid drinking through a straw and do not chew or bite your lips to prevent displacing filler.
    • No Massages: Avoid massages and putting your face in a massage cradle for 2 weeks.
    • Avoid Certain Medications: Do not take Advil, Vitamin E, Ginger, Ginkgo, Bilboa, Ginseng, or Garlic for several days. Tylenol is okay for discomfort.
    • Makeup: Avoid makeup for 12 hours post-treatment to reduce infection risk. Use clean tools if necessary and buy new products for lips.
    • Cold Compress: Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising.
    • Arnica Montana: Consider Arnica Montana pills or gel to help with bruising.
    • Monitor for Reactions: Small needle bumps will fade; bruising will resolve like any other bruise. Contact us for severe pain, unusual swelling, rash, or blisters.
  • General Care:
    • Gentle Skincare: Use mild products and avoid harsh chemicals.
    • Avoid Pressure: Don’t apply pressure or massage treated areas.
    • Ice Pack: Use an ice pack to ease swelling.
    • Avoid Vigorous Activity: Avoid strenuous activities that may strain the area.
    • Follow-Up: Schedule follow-ups as recommended.

What To Do Before Your Treatment?

  • Use sunscreen and physical sun protection.
  • Avoid extended sun exposure, i.e., beach, travel to sunny locations, sunbathing, and sports outdoors.
  • Inform your BBL clinician if any physician has ordered Accutane for you in the last six months.
  • Inform your doctor of any medical conditions or medications you are taking that might sensitize you to light, affect wound healing or affect coagulation.

 

What To Expect During Your Treatment?

  • The procedure is typically gentle and safe.
  • There is no need for a topical anesthetic. However, your clinician may choose to use it.
  • Your eyes will be protected with safety shields or glasses.
  • You may briefly feel a warm or rubber band snap sensation as the light is absorbed.

 

What To Do After Your Treatment?

  • You may experience some redness in the treatment area that should resolve within a few hours.
  • You may notice darkening of your pigmented spots, followed by fading and flaking off at a later stage.
  • Follow your clinician’s aftercare plan until skin is completely healed – typically one week after the treatment. The skin on your body might take longer to heal, compared to your face.
    There is virtually no downtime after this non-invasive and gentle procedure. In most cases, you are able to apply make-up, return to work and resume most of your activities immediately.

 

Skin Care Recommendations

SUNSCREEN:
Sunscreen is a MUST and should be used daily, beginning the day of treatment, consistently. Use sunscreen with Broadband UVA and UVB protection and a SPF of at least 30. Ensure to reapply during sun exposure. DO NOT expose your skin to direct sun exposure for 14 days. The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change.

CLEANSING:
Cleanse the skin two times a day with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Use your hands and fingertips to cleanse using gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrub, or use an exfoliant soap or skin care brush, e.g., Clarisonic, in the treated area.

MOISTURIZER:
Moisturizer should be applied generously with clean hands over treated area and reapplied
whenever your skin feels dry.

TIPS & TRICKS:

  • Use soft wash cloth and towels to avoid any scrubbing.
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat or sun-protecting clothing post-treatment to avoid blistering, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin has healed.

 

WATCH-OUTS

  • If the treated area is especially warm within the first 12 hours after the treatment, a cold compress or ice pack can be used to provide comfort.
  • If the skin appears red or swollen (sunburn sensation), an icepack can provide comfort, same as Vitamin E or Aloe Vera applied to the treatment area. In rare cases, oral pain relievers, i.e. Extra Strength Tylenol or Advil, may be used.
  • While the skin is healing, avoid anything that will irritate the skin, such as exfoliants, shaving, too hot or too cold water and swimming pools and spas with multiple chemicals/chlorine.

WARNING

  • In the unusual case of broken skin or blistering, contact the office immediately. Keep the affected area moist and avoid direct sunlight.

 

Just as important as the treatment, is the care for your skin pre- and post- treatment.

What To Expect & What You Should Do

What To Expect:

  • Redness: Normal redness can last up to 7 days, depending on the treatment’s intensity.
  • Warmth: The treated area may feel warm for 1-2 hours post-treatment, continuing for 12-24 hours afterward. Cold compresses and mineral water spray can provide relief and essential moisture.
  • MENDs (Microscopic Epidermal Necrotic Debris): These will appear on the 2nd or 3rd day after treatment as tiny dark spots and a bronzed appearance on the treated skin. They are part of the healing process, indicating the shedding of treated tissue. Your skin will feel very dry and rough, similar to sandpaper, before eventually flaking and peeling off. Keep your skin well moisturized to support healing and avoid picking at it.

 

Do not pick at your skin.

  • Swelling: Swelling immediately after treatment is typical. Using a cold compress can reduce swelling. Consider sleeping in an upright position for the first 2-3 nights after treatment to minimize swelling, especially under the eyes. Swelling is typically most noticeable the morning after treatment and may last 2-4 days.

 

What to Do :

  • Redness and Warmth: Use gentle cleansers to cleanse your skin and keep it moisturized. Avoid sun exposure to aid healing and reduce stress on your skin.
  • MENDs: Keep your skin well moisturized to support healing. Refrain from picking or peeling the skin prematurely.
  • Swelling: Use cold compresses to alleviate swelling. Consider sleeping in an upright position initially and expect more swelling under the eyes the morning after treatment. The swelling usually subsides within 2-4 days.

 

Skin Care Recommendations:

  • SUNSCREEN:
    Sunscreen is a MUST and should be consistently used daily, beginning the day of treatment. Use sunscreen with Broadband UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of at least 30. Ensure to reapply during sun exposure. DO NOT expose your skin to direct sun exposure for 14 days. The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change.
  • CLEANSING:
    Cleanse the skin two times a day with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Use your hands and fingertips to cleanse using gentle patting motions. DO NOT rub, scrub, or use an exfoliant soap or skin care brush, e.g., Clarisonic, in the treated area.
  • MOISTURIZER:
    Moisturizer should be applied generously with clean hands over the treated area and reapplied whenever your skin feels dry.

 

TIPS & TRICKS:

  • Use a soft washcloth and towels to avoid any scrubbing.
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat or sun-protecting clothing post-treatment to avoid blistering, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after the skin has healed.

 

WATCH-OUTS:

  • If the treated area is especially warm within the first 12 hours after the treatment, a cold compress or ice pack can provide comfort.
  • If the skin appears red or swollen (a sunburn sensation), an icepack can provide comfort, as can Vitamin E or Aloe Vera applied to the treatment area. In rare cases, oral pain relievers, such as Extra Strength Tylenol or Advil, may be used.
  • While the skin is healing, avoid anything that will irritate it, such as exfoliants, shaving, water that is too hot or cold, and swimming pools and spas with multiple chemicals/chlorine.
  • If you experience unusual broken skin or blistering, contact the office immediately. Keep the affected area moist and avoid direct sunlight.

 

WARNING:
There may be some degree of swelling post-treatment; however, it is recommended that you contact your provider if you experience excessive swelling or any sign of infection, including: Drainage – looks like pus, increased warmth at or around the treated area, fever, or extreme itching.

Microneedling Pre-Treatment Instructions:

  • Active Acne and Cold Sores:
    • If you have active acne or a history of cold sores in the treatment area, please notify us.
    • Treatment may need to be rescheduled, and if applicable, you’ll be prescribed medication to prevent cold sore outbreaks.
  • Skin Preparation:
    • Arrive with fully cleansed skin.
    • Avoid using Retin-A, retinoids, topical antibiotics, exfoliants, hydroquinone, and benzoyl peroxide for three days prior to treatment.
    • Notify us of any medication allergies, especially to topical products.
  • General Health Considerations:
    • Microneedling cannot be performed if pregnant.
    • If nursing, inform your provider so proper accommodations can be made before your appointment.
    • Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning products for seven days before the procedure.
    • Sunburned skin will result in the procedure being canceled.
    • Refrain from chemical peels, waxing, and chemical depilatories for two weeks before treatment.
    • Do not shave the treated area on the day of the procedure.
  • Other Recommendations:
    • It’s recommended to bring a hat for post-treatment use.
    • Avoid Accutane use for at least six months prior to treatment.

 

Microneedling Post-Treatment Instructions and Expectations:

  • Skin Care Regimen:
    • Use the provided Gentle Cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF 30 or higher for the first 4-5 days post-treatment.
    • Do not use any of your own products during this time.
  • Sun Exposure and Skincare Products:
    • Avoid sun exposure for at least 7-10 days post-treatment.
    • Refrain from picking or exfoliating the treated area.
    • Do not use Vitamin A products (including Retin-A, Retinol, Tazorac) for seven days post-treatment.
    • Avoid chemical peels for 14 days post-treatment.
    • Do not shave the treated area for three days after the procedure; if the skin is irritated, wait longer before shaving.
    • Do not use toners for 14 days post-treatment.
    • Avoid sweating, exercising, Jacuzzi, sauna, or steam baths until skin irritation has completely resolved (3-7 days).
    • Refrain from using exfoliating medications, chemical products, or devices for at least seven days post-treatment.
    • Avoid makeup for 24 hours post-treatment.
    • Use ice packs and Tylenol for discomfort or swelling; avoid Ibuprofen, Aleve, or Motrin.
  • Additional Recommendations:
    • Consume fresh pineapple or pineapple juice to minimize bruising and swelling.
    • If Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) was applied, do not wash it off until bedtime or the next morning.

 

Post-Treatment Healing Process:

  • Day 1:
    Expect redness, tightness, dryness, and sensitivity similar to sunburn. Use the provided moisturizer throughout the day, avoid makeup, and use Tylenol for pain relief (avoid anti-inflammatory medications, as these may impact your desired results).
  • Day 2:
    Skin may feel similar to Day 1. Use gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen provided. Do not use any other products.
  • Day 3:
    Skin should appear less swollen with continued light pink color. Follow post-care instructions.
  • Days 4-6:
    Minimal swelling and bruising may occur, with light flaking. Do not pick at flaking skin or use any exfoliants; continue using post-treatment moisturizer and sunscreen.
  • Days 8-28:
    Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every 2-3 hours while outdoors.

General Instructions:

  • Initial Appearance: Expect your skin to appear slightly tan, bronzed, or pink for the first two days, with possible tightness before peeling begins.
  • Sun Protection: Treat your skin as if it were sunburned: avoid sun exposure, sweating, and heat during the peeling process and beyond. Even after peeling, your new skin will be sensitive to UV light. Apply sunscreen regularly when outdoors.
  • Post Peel Kit: If any products from your post peel kit cause stinging or irritation beyond tolerance, contact your practitioner for alternative options.
  • Peeling Process: The extent of peeling varies; your skin will shed as much as needed. Apply Post Treatment Repair Cream and SPF 50+ Sunscreen every morning and as needed throughout the day during the 7-day peeling process.

 

Towelettes:

  • Function: Towelettes included in your kit stimulate the skin and accelerate the peeling process.
  • Usage: Use the first towelette 4 hours after your peel application, following intervals specified in your aftercare booklet. Use all towelettes within 48 hours, spaced at least 4 hours apart. Discontinue unused towelettes if peeling occurs within the first 48 hours.
  • Side Effects: Towelettes contain active ingredients and may cause slight stinging upon application. Some itching, especially on the first night, can be alleviated with Post Treatment Repair Cream, hydrocortisone cream, or oral antihistamines.

 

Peeling:

  • Safe Products: Use VI Derm Gentle Purifying Cleanser, Post Treatment Repair Cream, and SPF 50+ during peeling. Gentle cleansers, Aquaphor, and sunscreen can also be used from home.
  • Peeling Timeline: Expect peeling on days 3, 4, and 5, with exfoliation mostly subsided by day 6. Peeling typically starts around the mouth and progresses outward; the forehead and neck peel last.
  • Cleansing: Cleanse before showering, protecting your face from hot water. Use only fingertips; avoid washcloths or facial brushes during the first week.
  • Handling Peeling Skin: Avoid pulling, picking, or rubbing the skin. Premature removal can cause irritation and hyperpigmentation. Never forcibly peel off skin.
  • Moisturization: Keep your body hydrated and skin moisturized while peeling. Post Treatment Repair Cream may initially cause slight sensitivity but subsides quickly. Apply Aquaphor if excessively dry or irritated.

 

Post Peel:

  • Resuming Skincare Products: Non-active products can resume once peeling subsides (around day 6-7); active products can resume once sensitivity returns to normal (usually day 7-10).
  • Physical Activity / Exercise: Refrain for 72-96 hours after peel application to avoid excessive perspiration, which can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or blistering.
  • Next VI Peel: Schedule peels every 4-6 weeks for optimal results.
  • Other Skincare Treatments: Wait at least 2 weeks before any treatments that exfoliate the skin, such as facials, extractions, waxing, or threading. Consult your practitioner for alternative treatments.

Pre Threads:

  • Medical History: Please inform the treatment provider if you have a history of medication allergies, anaphylaxis, cold sores, or any other medical conditions.
  • Post-Procedure Effects: Expect bruising, swelling, and/or soreness after the procedure.
    Arnica Supplements: Over-the-counter arnica supplements have been shown to reduce swelling. You may start taking them three days before your treatment.
  • Avoid Certain Medications: DO NOT use NSAIDs (such as aspirin, ibuprofen), fish oil, Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba, St. John’s Wort, garlic pills, green tea, or other anti-inflammatory medications for 1 week before treatment, unless approved by your physician, as they can increase the risk of bruising.
  • Alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol for 5 days prior to your appointment.
  • Valtrex Use: If you experience 4-6 outbreaks of cold sores per year, take Valtrex the day before or on the morning of treatment, followed by a second dose 12 hours later.
  • Dental Work and Vaccines: Avoid dental work and vaccines for 2 weeks before and 4 weeks after your appointment.
  • Illness and Antibiotics: Ensure you are not experiencing illness or taking antibiotics within two weeks of your appointment.
  • Pregnancy and Nursing: You should not be pregnant or nursing during the procedure.

 

Post Threads:

  • Sleep Position: Sleep with your head elevated for the first seven days after the procedure.
  • Avoid Massaging: Do not massage the area where the threads are placed unless specifically instructed to do so.
  • Expected Reactions: Expect the treated areas to appear slightly red, swollen, somewhat irregular, and bruised for the first 7-10 days. These symptoms will gradually diminish.
  • Facials and Massages: Refrain from getting facials or massages in the treated area for at least one month after your procedure.
  • Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous workouts or active sports for 7-10 days following the treatment.
  • Alcohol: If possible, avoid alcohol for 24 hours after the procedure.
  • Other Treatments: Do not undergo laser, IPL, RF (radiofrequency), or other energy-based treatments on the treated area for one month.
  • Facial Movements and Baths: Avoid extreme facial movements and hot baths for one week post-procedure.
  • Bruising Management: If bruising occurs, you may continue taking Arnica supplements, apply topical Arnica gel, drink fresh pineapple juice, and/or take Bromelain supplements to help resolve bruising quickly. Only do so if these options are not contraindicated by your physician.
  • Dental Procedures: Refrain from undergoing dental procedures for 4 weeks if the treated area is around the mouth.
  • Hair Appointments: Avoid scheduling hair appointments for 2-3 weeks following your treatment.
  • Post-Treatment Dental Work: Do not undergo any dental work for four weeks after treatment.
  • Massage Instructions: You can massage small, treated areas only if you notice slight puckering or irregularity, and only if instructed to do so by your provider.
  • Diet After Cheeks or Jawline Treatment: If the treated area includes the cheeks or jawline, plan to eat a soft diet for the first 5-7 days.

Sculptra Pre-Procedure Instructions:

  • Avoid: Aspirin, Excedrin, Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin for 5 days prior to the procedure.
  • Avoid: Alcohol consumption for 5-7 days before your procedure.
  • Avoid: Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Ginko Biloba, St. John’s Wort, Ginseng, Glucosamine, Green Tea, and Garlic 7-10 days prior to the procedure, as they may cause excessive bleeding or bruising.
  • Prepare: Eat at least 1 cup of fresh pineapple or pineapple juice for 3 days prior to your appointment to help prevent bruising and swelling.
  • Use: Arnica Montana as directed (typically 5 tablets under the tongue, 3 times a day). This can also help prevent bruising and swelling.
  • Plan: Adjust your schedule accordingly as bruising and swelling may occur after your treatment.
  • Note: Wait at least 2 weeks after any vaccine to undergo filler treatment.
  • Reminder: Avoid dental procedures (including routine cleaning) 2 weeks before or 2 weeks after your Sculptra treatment.

 

Sculptra Post-Procedure Instructions:

  • Avoid: Excessive heat such as saunas, hot showers, direct sunlight, or cooking over a hot stove on the day of your treatment and for several days following. Heat can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased bleeding and bruising.
  • Avoid: Strenuous exercise immediately after the procedure, as it can raise blood pressure and pulse, contributing to more bruising and swelling.
  • Protect: Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear sunscreen to protect your skin, as sunlight can cause permanent discoloration after bruising.
  • Refrain: Do not consume alcohol for 24 hours after treatment, as it can also cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased bruising.
  • Specific to Lips: If your lips are treated, avoid using straws immediately after your treatment and refrain from chewing or biting on your lips to prevent displacement of filler.
  • Facial Massage: Perform facial massages as directed, 5 minutes at a time, five times per day for five days following the procedure.
  • Avoid: Do not take Advil, Vitamin E, Ginger, Ginko, Bilboa, Ginseng, or Garlic for several days after the procedure, as these may increase the risk of bruising.
  • Hygiene: Follow developing guidelines and avoid applying makeup for 12 hours post-treatment to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination and potential infection. Use clean brushes and sponges if you choose to apply makeup.
  • New Products: If using lipstick or gloss after lip treatment, use a new product to avoid introducing makeup into injection points, which may cause infection or nodules.
  • Cold Compresses: Apply cold compresses to the treatment sites to help reduce swelling and bruising.
  • Arnica Montana: Consider using Arnica Montana pills or gel to further minimize bruising post-treatment.
  • Normal Reactions: Understand that any bumps or marks from the needle sticks will disappear within a few hours. Bruising, if present, will resolve similarly to other bruises. Mild pain, swelling, itching, or redness at the injection site is normal and may last 1-2 days, rarely longer.
  • Results and Follow-up: Results from Sculptra take time to manifest, and a series of treatments is recommended for optimal results. Contact the office immediately if you experience severe or worsening pain, unusual swelling, rash, blistering, or sores in the treated area.

Cease using topical products with AHAs, Retinols, or Vitamin A at least three days before your DiamondGlow® treatment.

Cold Sores: If you’re prone to cold sores or herpes simplex outbreaks, consult your provider for preventive measures.

Skin Irritation: Contact our office if your skin has any irritation (e.g., sunburn, open wounds, or sores) the day before your appointment.

Compromised Skin: This procedure cannot be performed on open lesions or compromised skin. Please discuss any such issues with your provider before your DiamondGlow® service.

Note: DiamondGlow® is a noninvasive treatment with minimal downtime, allowing you to return to your daily activities right after your session.

Before Your Facial:

  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin well-hydrated.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol a day or two prior, as it can dehydrate your skin and thin blood vessels, leading to potential irritation.
  • Retinol: Refrain from using retinol products for at least 3 days before your facial to prevent irritation.
  • Diet: Avoid oily foods in the 2 days leading up to your facial.

 

After Your Facial:

  • Stay Hydrated: Continue drinking plenty of water to maintain skin hydration.
  • Sun Exposure: Minimize sun exposure for the rest of the day.
  • Touching Your Face: Avoid touching your face for the remainder of the day.
  • Temperature Extremes: Avoid hot or cold showers and excessive heat (e.g., saunas) for at least 72 hours to prevent pore irritation.
  • Makeup: Skip makeup for the rest of the day to let your skin breathe and reveal its natural glow.

 

Our esthetician will review additional post-care tips with you at the end of your facial.

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